CEDIA's Home Tech Pro Magazine - Winter 2022/2023 - EMEA

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FRONT COVER

22. C/ II Gulberg III Lahore, 54666 Pakistan www.synergyav.com

COPYRIGHT

All material in Home Tech Pro is the copyright of CEDIA and any reproduction of said material would require written permission from the association. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of published content, CEDIA cannot accept responsibility for any factual errors that may occur or for the veracity of claims made by contributors.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

(AT CEDIA) KLL

This year, I’m celebrating more than just the holiday season. I’m also celebrating my first anniversary at CEDIA. To everyone I’ve met thus far on my journey, I want to thank you for welcoming me into this position and industry with open arms. I’m pleased to say I’ve found a home at CEDIA.

Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to experience many incredible “firsts,” the most recent being CEDIA Expo 2022. Judging from the buzz on the show floor to the conversations I had with many of you, CEDIA Expo felt like itself again for the first time since the pandemic. Some of my personal standout moments from the show were the Advocacy Town Hall and the CEDIA Awards. The Town Hall had more energy and engagement than I could have ever imagined, with 300 industry professionals showing up at 7 a.m. to learn about CEDIA’s government relations work. I was also honoured to shake the hands of this year’s winners at the CEDIA Awards and properly congratulate them for their hard work.

Now, as an association, we’ve set our sights on ISE 2023. I’m excited to return to the Fira de Barcelona to connect with many of you. I invite you to visit the CEDIA booth (2H600) to meet with me and other members of the CEDIA team to find out more about our year-round programmes and initiatives. We’ll also be hosting a Connection Hour in the CEDIA booth from 5-6 p.m. each day of the show. Stop by for a quick drink to close out the day.

Finally, I would be remiss not to mention the tireless efforts from the CEDIA staff, board, and volunteers in ensuring these and many other programmes are a great success. Their devotion is admirable, and I am grateful to work alongside such incredible individuals.

On behalf of CEDIA, I want to wish you all a joyous holiday season and a happy new year.

See you at ISE, Daryl Friedman

CEDIA Global President & CEO

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NEWS IN BRIEF

CEDIA WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE, CHRISTINE DEJOY

Christine DeJoy joined CEDIA as the Vice President of Communications just three months ago in September 2022 ,but has already made a big splash. Using her 20+ years of experience in network television publicity and marketing, as well as experience in the nonprofit world, she joins a diverse executive leadership team comprised of voices from all over the globe.

As VP of Communications, DeJoy will guide the global communications strategy. A few goals include increasing consumer visibility and enhancing CEDIA’s already prominent reputation in the industry.

“I’m honoured to join the CEDIA family as its Vice President of Communications,” says DeJoy. “With my background in the telecommunications, nonprofit, and entertainment industries, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for what makes CEDIA so special. This organisation plays a tremendous role in advocacy, connection, and education. I’m thrilled to be part of its evolution and growth.”

CEDIA TECH SUMMITS 2023

In December, CEDIA wrapped up its 2022 Tech Summit tour with two stops in Florida. This year’s events had record-breaking attendance, with most locations surpassing or closely rivalling pre-pandemic numbers.

“The energy at the Tech Summits has been incredible! These free, local events serve such an important purpose in our industry because of the quality of connections made between reps, manufacturers, distributors, and integrators. No other events in the industry get closer to integrators on a local level than the Tech Summits, with over 20 events worldwide that provide opportunities for education, networking, and the discovery of new technology. We’re looking forward to forging new connections in 2023.”

The global 2023 Tech Summits will be making stops in the following locations:

Chicago Ft. Lauderdale Los Angeles

Orange County Salt Lake City Toronto

UK: Edinburgh Leeds London

APAC: Gold Coast Delhi Mumbai

New Jersey New York Orlando 4

The dates and exact locations of the 2023 Tech Summits will be announced soon. For more information, visit cedia.net/techsummits.

A LOOK BEHIND THE CURTAIN AT CEDIA EVENTS

CEDIA puts on many events each year. CEDIA Expo is a major highlight, especially in the Americas region; however, it’s far from the only one. In the EMEA region, CEDIA co-owns the Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) Show. There are also Tech Summits in several regions around the globe, including in India and Australia.

For CEDIA’s meetings and events team, so many events mean a busy dayto-day schedule. CEDIA’s Director of Meetings and Events, Jennifer Roth, has been with the company for 19 years and attended her 20th CEDIA Expo in 2022. Planning events can be hectic and includes working with dedicated staff members around the world, but seeing the end result makes it worthwhile. “We try new ways to make the events memorable each year,” she says, noting that it’s a “breath of fresh air to be back in person.” When events are thriving and attendees are learning and enjoying their time, the meetings and events team is happy, too.

2023 is sure to be an exciting time to attend CEDIA events. Stay tuned for more details on what’s coming up and how you can get involved!

A VISION OF CHANGE

In 2022, CEDIA has seen significant changes in how it serves its members. This new vision, led by CEO and Global President, Daryl Friedman, has seen positive impacts in membership, government affairs, and workforce development priorities

A few milestones from 2022:

• The ACE pillars launched to direct CEDIA’s goals: Advocacy, Connection, and Education

• Membership hit the 4000-member milestone in October, an almost 12% increase since October 2021

• 300 people joined the new Advocacy Town Hall event at CEDIA Expo in Dallas, which was geared toward helping individuals learn how to get involved with industry advocacy

• The launch of a new student affiliation programme will help CEDIA bring

young people into the field and work toward addressing the widespread labour shortage

• Beginning in 2023, global Tech Summits will include a career fair component and CEDIA will connect businesses to local colleges and technical schools, as well as provide a toolkit & video for how to attract young people to the field

KEEP INVESTING IN SUCCESS

It’s time to renew your CEDIA membership for 2023.

CEDIA membership empowers you to reach your potential through resources defined under its core pillars: Advocacy, Connection, and Education.

Advocacy: We provide local and national support for your business and the entire smart home technology industry.

Connection: We facilitate businessto-business networking and learning so you can get inside knowledge on the smart home technology industry.

Education: We develop smart home resources to help you and your business learn and grow.

Power your profession with the leading global organisation for the smart home technology industry. Renew today at cedia.net/renew.

NEWS IN BRIEF

CEDIA LAUNCHES REGIONAL PRICING IN SELECT MARKETS

As part of the new global development strategy, CEDIA is introducing regional pricing in select markets. Eligibility will be linked to the categorisations of each country by the World Bank, which is assessed annually and takes into consideration the gross national income of each country.

In the upcoming months, most of CEDIA’s products and services will be available at a reduced cost, including online courses (excluding third party courses, such as KNX, ISF, HAA, etc.), paid research, white papers, Cabling & Infrastructure Technician (CIT) and Integrated Systems Technician (IST) books, and CIT and IST exam and retest fees. All other benefits will remain the same.

Most items will be available for up to 50% off the original price, with the exception of certification exams, which will be available at the following pricing models for CEDIA members:

• CIT Exam Fee: $100

• CIT Retest Fee: $80

• IST/ESCN/ESCD Exam Fee: $125

• IST/ESCN/ESCD Retest Fee: $100

To view a list of courses available at a discounted rate, visit cedia.net/academy.

CEDIA RELEASES NEW WHITE PAPER

Have you read our latest white paper yet? It’s about immersive audio.

Immersive media aims to increase realism. It describes the technical tools that content creators have at their disposal to better convey their artistic intent and immerse the audience in the narrative. However, that’s the content. Reproducing this intent in the home is the job of the immersive experience designer, a cornerstone of which is immersive audio design.

“Immersive Audio and Using the X.Y.Z. Syntax” explores the origins and development of immersive audio, clarifying some of the terminology, what the “x.y.z.” syntax means, and how to interpret and use it in describing the spatial resolution of immersive audio systems.

If you’re into immersive audio, you’ll want to grab a copy at cedia.net/ whitepapers.

SYNERGY

Tell the readers about how and when Synergy Technologies was founded and how it has evolved since then.

I developed a passion for home integration and highperformance audio-visual systems while I was studying engineering in the UK. Synergy Technologies was a vision to pursue that passion and cater to the needs of my fellow enthusiasts upon my return to Pakistan. We have grown over the last two decades with the sheer dedication of our team, and the endorsement of our design partners and discerning clients.

At Synergy, we are united by our passion to create bespoke and everlasting experiences. We continuously endeavour to expand the horizons of our creativity and ability with a single-minded pursuit of excellence and customer delight.

What is your approach when working on a new project – from initial client engagement through to the design and implementation of the system?

Our goal for our projects is to achieve a blend of simplicity and sophistication, complemented by comfort and aesthetics to create that synergistic experience.

We start off with the most important element in the project, our client. We strive to understand their choices, lifestyle, and what excites them as well as their concerns and apprehensions.

At times, the clients come to us overwhelmed with the multitude of possibilities available to them in terms

of technologies and brands and so many options of interacting with their home. We see it as our key responsibility to help our clients choose a solution that would enrich their lifestyle with effortless convenience and comfort.

Throughout the project lifecycle and the phases of design, project management, and installation to the programming and the final calibration of the system, we endeavour to provide a seamless experience to our clients and meet expectations and our own stringent standards.

How is the smart home market currently looking in Pakistan? How would you say the market in Pakistan varies from other parts of the world?

In this age, the ease in accessing information and newer technologies has allowed people to invest more time and resources towards smarter homes, and this presents us with a very exciting opportunity. As a company, we strive to create an exceptional user experience and we are excited by the way the smart home market is shaping up.

Residences in our country have fairly high staffing levels for kitchen, security, and housekeeping. Furthermore, the joint family culture sees three and sometimes four generations living in the same home. The user interface needs to cater to these diverse needs and abilities. We also need to assure that a robust containment and connectivity structure is designed into the system, and that the security set up is planned in consideration of these realities.

“As a company, we strive to create an exceptional user experience and we are excited by the way the smart home market is shaping up.”

i am

CEDIA

You recently launched your new showroom. Tell us about the thinking behind this project and your plans now that it’s completed.

The Townhouse is what we would call a ‘proof of concept’. There is no substitute for experience.

The growing portfolio of solutions and brands that we offer necessitated a much larger demonstration facility, so we took a fundamental decision

to move to a new premises with an objective to set up an experience centre from the ground up that would render our claim “Extraordinary Solutions for Exceptional Spaces” in its entirety.

We saw an opportunity to capitalise on our strong relationships with the design community and our distinguished clientst that we’ve built over the last two decades. We have once again pioneered the introduction

of innovative concepts in premium projects for smart home solutions, entertainment systems, architectural lighting, designer furniture, and premium wellness solutions.

We have paid close attention to the finer details in an effort to achieve a meticulous end result, and we are thrilled to see the guests really enjoy this experience centre and appreciate the thought and effort that has gone into each of its elements.

You were awarded a CEDIA Award for your showroom. What does this mean to you and your team? And why do you think it is important to enter the CEDIA Awards?

We are really inspired by the work that CEDIA does, as we believe it has been instrumental to the growth and the professional development within this industry. Our participation in the CEDIA Awards is always a source of anxious anticipation and immense excitement for our team.

The CEDIA Awards provide a benchmark for work within our region and globally. The physical distance from CEDIA training hubs presents certain challenges in terms of hands-on training and certification, so it is always important for us to put greater focus and effort into meeting CEDIA Standards.

Winning the award for Best Showroom gives us tremendous pride and also validates the effort that the entire team had put into the project.

What’s your favourite part about working in the industry?

What’s so amazing working in the field that we are in is that there is immense creativity and innovation to experience and participate in. New technologies that enrich our lifestyle, beautiful new designs to stimulate our senses, and the incredible performance to enjoy and admire.

Conceptualising and executing high-performance systems is challenging but is extremely rewarding work. The defining moment is when it all comes together for that ‘wow effect’ for our clients, who share our passion and excitement and are an integral element of the experiences we are able to create.

How long have you been a CEDIA member? What compelled you to join?

We have been CEDIA members for well over 15 years now. The main drivers for our participation as CEDIA members were the education, training opportunities, a forum to interact with like-minded professionals and innovative manufacturers, and the development of industry standards.

We admire CEDIA’s contribution to this industry and their mantra, “to connect, empower, and champion”. It inspires us as home technology professionals to constantly push boundaries and innovate to provide the best experience to our clients.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the industry?

The key element in my view is the user experience; from the initial contact to the final delivery. The clarity with which we communicate the possibilities and choices, how well we understand the client’s needs, and how promptly we cater to those needs at each stage of the project.

We are in the ‘custom’ industry specialising in serving our clients’ unique requirements holistically and precisely. When we pursue excellence and clients’ delight, we see that success just naturally follows.

www.synergyav.com

“ Our goal for our projects is to achieve a blend of simplicity and sophistication, complemented by comfort and aesthetics to create that synergistic experience.

BRING BLOCKBUSTER CINEMA HOME

L-Acoustics leads the professional audio industry in the design and manufacturing of premium sound reinforcement technologies, delivering superlative and predictable performance across stadiums, performing arts venues, and nightclubs. L-Acoustics Creations uses the same scientific approach and proprietary tools in modeling and tuning a home cinema, party space, garden area, or multi-purpose media room. The result is even coverage, high fidelity and high SPL with minimal visual impact for exactly the movie experience the director intended.

Visit creations.l-acoustics.com to book an appointment in London, Paris, or Los Angeles or meet with the L-Acoustics Creations team at ISE 2023.

AWARD-WINNING PROJECT GIVES NEW MEANING

This modern lakeside home has views of Lake Minnetonka from almost every angle. As a married couple with a young son, the clients wanted their home to convey a feeling of flow and open space without technological intrusion. The motif was “clean simplicity,” which meant a Crestron Home System with minimal clutter was a natural fit.

Tragedy struck this new build during construction, reducing the frame to ashes. Admit One Home Systems tells us the clients immediately started rebuilding and chose them for a second time to integrate the family home. An open concept theatre and high-quality audio coverage was high on the list of priorities, as was security coverage to help protect against any potential catastrophes.

Knowing that security was paramount, Admit One installed 22 cameras to provide visibility of every nook and cranny of the property. Seventeen outdoor turret cameras, two PTZs, and three indoor cameras provide coverage for the garages and sports court. The Crestron integration system also provides specialty front door control using solenoiddriven pin-style latches with sensors to detect when the door is closed. A DSC Neo system connected with Alarm.com provides extensive intrusion and environmental coverage.

Since it was the client’s first experience with lighting and shade control, Admit One used a comprehensive Crestron lighting system to facilitate lighting and shades, including energy saving potential and automation scheduling. The home has numerous huge windows, and the client requested the home be “light and bright” during the day. Automation was key, and the project included extensive shades and draperies to make the lighting just right – comfortable no matter what time of day or the weather outside.

Entertainment options are abundant. The client requested clean sightlines to all four displays in the theatre room from his bar seat. The bar pillars presented a challenge to this request.

“Being able to walk through their space with VR technology instilled a lot of confidence with the clients and truthfully, was probably a big reason they decided to go with us,” notes Admit One. The CEDIA Awards judges called the VR walkthrough “inspiring.”

A local HR310 handheld controller, connected to the Crestron CP-4 processor via CEN-GWEXER gateways, handles control for 19 zones in the home, a testament to just how large and sprawling this project truly is. In fact, the extensive landscape lighting, outdoor fixtures, and water features are all controlled through a simple keypad and app, and the entire lighting system for these open spaces can be operated by a single button push.

The judges noted the “state of the art technology running quietly in the background of this family home adds immeasurably to the pleasure of living there. “

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LEGITIMISING QUALITY SYSTEM PERFORMANCE

Bringing

B y Ian Bryant | Consultant, Residential, Commercial and IoT Technology Specialist

Of CEDIA’s three main pillars, Advocacy, Connection, and Education, Advocacy is the one most often overlooked. While Connection and Education are more forward facing, CEDIA’s Advocacy work, which consists of government affairs, recommended practices, and standards, often happens behind the scenes.

The purpose of standards and recommended practices is one of a highly misunderstood endeavour that CEDIA’s focus is on system performance standards, as opposed to device manufacturing or signal transport standards, and poses a few important questions.

When the components of your system come together, what elements of the experience can be defined and qualified? How should the system perform? CEDIA uses this research to design, install, and verify residential spaces. In the end, we have data-backed definitions for system performance when educating clients on what they can and should expect from custom solutions.

The largest and arguably most impactful of these groups is R10, a joint effort between CEDIA and the Consumer Technology Association (CTA).

The History of R10

The R10 group was formed to create standards and recommended practices for the installation and

integration of technology into primarily residential environments. CEDIA took over management of the group when it became an ANSI accredited Standards Development Organisation (SDO). Today, both CEDIA and the CTA bring unique perspectives to the discussions.

“R10 is a cross-industry standards group that has no commercial or licensing ties, with all participants being volunteers,” explains Peter Aylett, Partner at Officina Acustica and recent CEDIA Fellow inductee.

The R10 group, overseen by CEDIA Senior Director of Technology & Standards, Walt Zerbe, consists of over 130 volunteer members made up of integrators, manufacturers, protocol suppliers, members of other associations like SMPTE, DTS, and Dolby, content creators, and more.

One volunteer called R10 “an amazing group of people with diverse backgrounds all dedicated to creating recommended practices and standards focussed on proper installation of technology.”

All About Recommended Practices (RPs)

Within the R10 group, there are a few current RP (Recommended Practice) sub-groups, RP22, RP23, and RP1. RP22 is the recommended practice for the design of immersive audio within private entertainment spaces. RP22 is nearly finalised, with projected completion estimated for Q1 of 2023. It is a revision of the CTA/ CEDIA-CEB22-B Home Theatre Recommended Practice: Audio Design.

CEDIA’s recommended practices for the advancement of the custom integration industry to the forefront

When CEB22 was created, immersive audio was not fully specified or released, so the focus was on general home theatre practices. RP22 is described by Zerbe as “a major three-year revision,” that includes immersive audio, universal speaker layouts for all of the formats (Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, Auto 3D, etc.), a greatly expanded bass management section, coverage, seatto-seat variation, and a never-beforedone addition of performance levels. The terms “home theatre” and “home cinema” have also been removed from the title to be more inclusive of all immersive audio, including gaming, streaming, music, and more.

The performance levels section of RP22 may be the most disruptive element of a recommended practice in decades. A common problem in our industry, specifically in the entertainment space, is measuring a system’s quality and performance. In the past, most would either quantify it with a monetary amount or describe it is as a “reference system”. Instead, this group posed the questions: reference to what, reference how, and what does that even mean?

RP22 defines performance targets for reference as well as two levels below and one above. There are 21 parameters that are predictable at the design engineering phase of a project and measurable at post commissioning and calibration phases. Level 1 is the minimum that is considered able to convey basic artistic intent, level 2 is increased performance, level 3 is reference, and level 4 exceeds reference.

“For the first time, we will have objective rather than subjective definitions of in-room performance,” says Aylett.

RP22 will help integrators:

• Compete on a level playing field by proposing systems based on performance levels, helping avoid competing situations where someone will say they can do it for less, as now “it” is objectively definable

• Deliver consistent user experiences through the application of engineering

• Separate themselves from the untrained DIY and DIFM markets by bringing engineering integrity to systems

• Deliver systems that are signed off on objective metrics

• Select the correct products through their engineering specification facts

Why We Need RPs

Some might say the industry is doing just fine without these new recommended practices and standards, and that they’re not necessary. To that, Zerbe says, “We have a responsibility as an industry to do our work to the best of our ability all of the time, and we need the knowledge to do so.” Not to mention, standards and recommended practices give the smart home industry credibility among other industry associations, adjacent trades, and the design/build community.

“Professional CI is under huge pressure from the mainly consumer Giga-companies who are offering increasingly compelling user experiences through the retail/DIY channel,” adds Aylett. “Standards will help professional integration companies to apply a humancentric engineering-based approach as opposed to a product-based one.”

As for what’s ahead, the R10 group plans to finalise RP23 (video design) and RP1 (performance facts) later in 2023. RP1 will be complementary to both RP22 and RP23, as it will ask manufacturers to give the industry real performance data on their products and allow engineers to make informed specification decisions. After that, R10 plans to tackle measurement and verification.

“My journey through the R10 group has been the most enriching of my industry career,” says Aylett. “I have learned a huge amount through collaboration with the finest industry minds that exist. This type of idea sharing, friendly debate, and sense of community is not available anywhere else in the industry. I feel privileged to still be part of it.”

Any CEDIA or CTA members interested in volunteering their time to make a difference in the industry can find out more at cedia.net/volunteer.

SAFESHARK

Jonathan Marshall and Alex Buchan, two of the founding directors of SafeShark, provide details on a new standard that will affect all connected products and how manufacturers, distributors, and integrators do business.

The Cyber Security Regulations

The Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Bill is currently in its final stages of approval. This bill includes a cyber security element aimed at ensuring consumer IoT products are built with cyber security in mind from the start. This standard includes, smart cameras, TVs, speakers, wearables, home automation systems, and white goods. It is designed to help the industry move away from the throwaway mentality where products only last for two or three years because a manufacturer no longer provides software updates. One of the provisions in the PSTI bill sets out that the manufacturer has to disclose at the point of purchase, how long they will keep that product updated for.

The bill has gone through the House of Commons and is now with the House of Lords. Once this has been signed off, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) will enforce the new law, setting out requirements, measures for non-compliance, and giving manufacturers a 12-month grace period to prepare. The initial proposal from the UK Government is that failure to meet these requirements will result in a penalty of 4% of worldwide turnover.

In Europe, the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) provides a regulatory framework for placing radio equipment in the EU market, telecommunication conformity assessment, and market surveillance committee, and guidance. The regulation, which increases cyber security, personal data privacy, and fraud protection for applicable wireless devices

available on the EU market, came into effect on 1 February 2022, but will only become mandatory on 1 August 2024.

Ultimately, this means that by 2024, any connected product that falls under the connectivity requirements, whether that’s ZigBee, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, ethernet, Wi-Fi, will need to be compliant with the Directive.

The standard that will underpin both PSTI in the UK and RED in Europe is ETSI EN 303 645. This is essentially the set of tests that manufacturers will need to carry out in order to demonstrate compliance to the new laws.

Getting Your Products Certified

With the new requirements relating to so many products, it could be confusing for the purchaser to know if they are choosing a product that is compliant or not. This is where SafeShark’s Consumer IoT Verification Scheme comes into play. The scheme tests products against ETSI EN 3030 645 and then certifies them via BSI who will issue a logo to manufacturers to demonstrate a rigorous, objective, and independent verification of a connected device’s security.

The situation can become complicated when there are various OEM manufacturers involved and the testing is only carried out once the product has been fully developed/finalised. SafeShark advises against this

approach and instead, aims to help manufacturers during the product development stage when each element can be tested individually.

Once certified, products are continually monitored by the SafeShark Intercept platform to ensure compliance is maintained over the whole lifecycle of the product as software is updated and as cyber threats and standards evolve.

The Impact on the Smart Home Market

Thinking about the smart home market, this standard not only has an impact on the manufacturers, but also distributors, sales reps, and integrators. While the onus is on the manufacturer to have their products meet these requirements and disclose the information to the purchaser, the distributor will want to do their due diligence to ensure they are only agreeing to stock and sell products that are compliant.

Likewise, it is down to the integrator to check that the products they are installing are in line with this new requirement. This could mean that some integrators change the systems that they usually specify if their chosen manufacturer hasn’t yet ensured their products are compliant. It is also their responsibility to relay this message to their client.

Disclosure and clarity from the manufacturer to the purchaser is critical in minimising the risk of purchasing a product with security risks or an unacceptably limited lifetime.

To hear more about the new regulations, how they affect you, and how SafeShark’s testing and certification can ensure you are prepared, listen to the ‘Cyber Security Law That Will Affect You’ episode of the CEDIA Podcast visit cedia.net/podcast

SafeShark is focussed on helping manufacturers understand the current and upcoming IoT cyber security. Backed by the British Standards Institute (BSI), the SafeShark scheme certifies products against international standards.

While Buchan came from a product testing background at Digital TV Group (DTG), the UK’s leading tech testing house for televisions and radios, Marshall was running a cyber security company called Connect Devices. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) spotted the work that Connect Devices was doing and put Marshall in touch with DCMS who, at that time, was just beginning to think about their code of practice for what has become of the ETSI EN 303 645 standard.

This was the start of SafeShark’s work with manufacturers to help them ensure their devices are compliant with these new regulations before they even come to market. At this point, Buchan and Marshall decided to team up and form SafeShark helping manufacturers and distributors turn compliance into a competitive edge.

safeshark.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT POWER & ENERGY AT CEDIA EXPO 2022

B y Ian Bryant | Consultant, Residential, Commercial and IoT Technology Specialist

Power and energy discussions were on many attendees’ minds at CEDIA Expo 2022 in Dallas. There were four CEDIA Education sessions directed toward the integrator interested in getting into power and energy solutions for their client and looking ahead at what’s coming quickly down the road. Multiple manufacturers exhibited their new solutions and explained how integrators can easily implement them. Now is a perfect moment for consumers and trade suppliers to act, with nearly $400 billion in clean energy provisions included in the recently passed U.S. Inflation Reduction Act.

Parks Associates had a star-studded panel discussion with representatives from Span.io, Sunnova, Reliant, Schneider Electric, Savant Power, and Blink Charging. They discussed the role of energy management in the future home. These manufacturers are investing a lot into the future of energy with new R&D (research & development), new products and massive PR to the consumer and the design/build community.

CEDIA staff, Ken Erdmann, Darren Reaman, and longtime CEDIA volunteer and Principal at REV2 Consulting, Michael Cogbill gave two impactful sessions on topics that will directly affect and provide opportunities for the

CI channel. One session was about digital electricity and other ways to power the home. Discussion included DC Micro-Grids, Digital Power, PoE Power, and USB power.

As the lines between low- and high-voltage start to blend, it’s more important now than ever before for integrators in the U.S. to pay attention to the new NEC codes. Cogbill and Erdmann worked on specification for the new NEC 2023 code as representatives for our industry. In the session “The NEC 2023: How Changes to the Code Will Impact Your Business”, they went through some critical parts of the new code in Classes 1, 2, 3, and 4 that will affect CI channel projects in the very near future. Reaman, CEDIA’s Director of Government Affairs, spoke on legislation and regulations that have the potential to restrict the industry now and in the future. With the help of industry partners and CEDIA volunteers, Reaman continues to advocate on behalf of the industry to prevent legislation that limits what integrators can do.

Power storage is also taking the spotlight as more companies jump into the ring and consumers look for ways to be independent from the grid. Adam Weinstein, executive sales manager at Sonnen, presented a session

on how to properly size energy storage solutions for residential and light commercial buildings. This topic is new for both integrators and electricians and requires some specialised training.

Most manufacturers are making it easy to get this training and some are offering “white glove” design and support for dealers. For customers looking to save money, become more energy independent, or feel more secure as climate change brings additional uncertainty, implementing storage solutions is one of the last pieces to the puzzle for power and energy in the home of the future.

At CEDIA Expo, there was no shortage of exhibitors with a power and energy focus. There were many new, up-and-coming power and energy companies looking to work with the CI channel. There were also big-name manufacturers launching and showcasing power and energy solutions. We expect to see this continue to expand and grow at CEDIA Expo as the show embraces all things technology in the home.

This is not a fad, nor is this something that should only be handled by electrical contractors or solar providers. This is an opportunity for the CI channel to lead and advocate for one of the most important systems in the home. For an industry that was mostly known for luxury theatres, TVs, and audio systems, we have an opportunity to educate our customers on the importance and impact of power and energy management and adding clean energy solutions to their homes.

What good is an amazing home theatre if you have no power? What good is all the amazing technology we integrate if the world outside is in pieces? Why not be an advocate for sustainability and the future of our industry - the future of the world.

INTEGRATORS NEED BUSINESS MANAGEMENT KNOWLEDGE TO SURVIVE

BY RACHEL TINDALL | CEDIA, CONTENT WRITER

eslie Shiner has been a mainstay in the smart home technology industry for many years working with integrators on the operational aspects of their business – topics like profit tracking, budgeting, and how to appropriately price jobs. Her company, The Shiner Group, specialises in providing services to the construction trades and sub-trades. Her focus? Profitability, because money matters to every business.

LIt all started when…

After graduating from the University of California Berkeley with her Master’s of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance and starting her family, Shiner realised she didn’t want to go back to the big investment banking firm that had offered her a job.

During graduate school, she’d been fascinated by the numbers involved with business. She loved talking to business owners and learning about their successes and failures firsthand.

As she slowly built her consulting business, Shiner realised the businesses she worked with all had similar issues. Then, in 2001, she was invited to speak

at CEDIA Expo. She recalls, “I fell in love with the industry and the concepts behind integration companies and all the challenges integrators face.”

Since then, Shiner has been named a CEDIA Fellow (2013), participated on numerous committees and education projects, and has been an overwhelming help to the industry as a whole. As she began to teach more and share her wealth of knowledge with integrators, she always heard some version of the same thing:

“Great information, Leslie. But now what?”

Opportunity Strikes & The Business Toolkit is Born

The professionals in our industry know tech; it’s ingrained into what they do every day. They know how to work directly on projects and solve complicated technical problems. What’s less familiar is the business end of running a successful business.

Enter The Business Toolkit.

Shiner developed the Business Toolkit to answer the “now what” question. With six brief white papers and accompanying spreadsheets, business owners can “go in and play” with the information using their own business model and numbers.

As small businesses mature, adding team members is inevitable, which means the owner must have a good foundational business knowledge. Shiner notes, “You don’t have to do all the bookkeeping and accounting, but when somebody hands you a report, you have to be able to understand it.”

How to Get the Most Out of The Business Toolkit

No matter where you are around the globe, you can use the concepts from the Toolkit to grow your business. As Shiner says, “Business is business. The goal is money in and money out. Ultimately, at the end of the day, you hope to have more money in than money out, no matter what country you live in.” While the language or spelling may be different, the concepts are the same.

The six topics include:

• Developing a Chart of Accounts for Integrators

• Creating a Financial Dashboard

These topics can be broken down into three main categories. Chart of Accounts gives a basic understanding of structuring your business and a good background on how to understand your financial statements. Labour Costs, Markup & Margin, and Change Order are based on business operations. The final two about breakeven analysis and financial dashboards are analytical tools you can use once you have business financial processes in place.

Each lesson discusses multiple topics, but since each business owner brings their own experiences and unique offerings to the table, there’s more than one way to approach the material.

How to Learn with Leslie Shiner

If you’re interested in getting a copy of the Business Toolkit, you can find it on CEDIA’s website at cedia.net/ whitepapers. The toolkit is priced at $499, and it’s worth every penny. BUT, if you’re a CEDIA member, you get

it free as a benefit of membership. That means if you use The Toolkit to make money for your business, the price of membership is essentially covered.

Shiner has a book called The Simple Guide to Turning a Profit as a Contractor you can purchase at any time via her website or Amazon.

She’s also teaching several courses at ISE 2023 in Barcelona from 31 January - 3 February:

• Managing Subcontractors in Today’s Gig Economy

• The Power of Breakeven Analysis

• Creating Exit Strategy

• Growing Your Business Without Growing Out of Business: Making Major Steps While Maintaining Margins

Stay up to date with ISE and register for Shiner’s classes at www.iseurope.org/.

GLOBAL AWARD WINNER DELIVERS DREAM HOME CINEMA

UK-based integrator, Cinema Lusso was recently awarded EMEA Best Home Cinema Level II and Global Home Cinema at the 2022 CEDIA Awards.

Having purchased his forever home, the client - a movie fanatic and CEO of an engineering company - described this home cinema project as a once in a lifetime opportunity to fulfil a dream. It was originally meant to be a DIY project. However, each attempt to research optimal solutions for AV and interior design led to a never-ending rabbit hole of further questions and research.

After deciding that he wanted to bring an expert in to do the work, the client contracted Cinema Lusso for the job and provided them with a brief to deliver an intelligently engineered AV design that would manage and minimise inevitable compromises.

From Cinema Lusso’s discovery interview, the integrator determined that the room only required seating for immediate family members, and that acoustic isolation and an effective “night mode” would be critical to the success of the project.

In order to apply a degree of objectivity to the design, Cinema Lusso created a series of AV levels ranging from 1-4. Level 1 represented the minimum

Best Home Cinema Global EMEA

Home Cinema Level II

performance required to reproduce artistic intent, while level 4 features a full state-of-the-art set up. The agreed target was to aim to meet or exceed as many level 3 criteria as practically and economically feasible, with a slightly skewed focus on audio over video performance.

The aim for the audio was to ensure the system could convey the director’s original intent, remaining faithful to the technical production of the movie. Cinema Lusso’s design is based on technical engineering principles to allow the system to deliver the correct measurable audio performance across the seating area.

The client stated that much of the room usage will be after his son is asleep, so significant sound isolation from the rest of the property was required. The isolation installed reduces intrusion of outside noise, contributing to a lower noise floor and allows for greater peak SPL without disturbing those outside the room.

A combination of subwoofer placement, seating location, passive acoustic treatment, and electroacoustic optimisation are all employed to reduce both seat-to-seat variation and inter-frequency variation. Tactile transducers were added in each

seat to provide the client a sense of bass energy at night if listening to the system at reduced levels.

With the client expecting to use the cinema in excess of 10 hours per week, the integrator was conscious of selecting a high lifetime laser projector to avoid luminance fluctuation between lamp changes. In order to provide image quality that is in line with the performance of a commercial cinema performance, a minimum reflected luminance of 14ftL was required post calibration.

The look and feel of the room were key. It needed to be a comfortable place to spend family time together and not, in the client’s words, “a black hole”. While he didn’t want there to be an overt theme to the room, he was interested in a subtle sci-fi look. With this in mind, Cinema Lusso designed a concept that draws on inspiration from the client’s favourite TV show, The Expanse, and has created a refined scifi space. Materials in a neutral grey palette were used in the design to ensure room reflections are minimised with no colour cast and to prevent black level clipping.

The design needed to provide many indirect lighting options to allow some light to be left on during a movie if desired. Cinema Lusso created multiple lighting scenes to include coloured lighting effects for entry of the room, a low-level white mode for lights-on viewing with children, a full blackout mode, and a high brightness mode used exclusively for cleaning.

MEET CEDIA’S NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Following a global membership vote, Stephan Goodhue, Jennifer Mallett, and James Ratcliffe have been elected to serve on CEDIA’s Board of Directors for the 2023-2025 term. All three of these individuals are accomplished integrators who will contribute greatly to CEDIA’s next phase of growth.

During the election phase, the board chose to conduct a slate approach for the second time in CEDIA’s history. This allowed the Governance Committee to evaluate the needs of the board, research all potential candidates extensively, and select the three most suited to meet the needs of the organisation.

The membership endorsed the Governance Committee’s work, 89% to 11%. There was an increase (19%) in overall voting; 240 member votes were cast, up from 202 in the last election.

For more information about the CEDIA Board of Directors, visit cedia.net/about-cedia.

Stephan Goodhue

Liquid Automation, Auckland, New Zealand

Stephan Goodhue has been involved in the Home Automation/IT/AV industry for over 30 years. He began as an electronics engineer working in the marine industry for over a decade before establishing his integration firm, Liquid Automation. Goodhue’s vision was to provide the same high level of marine-standard installation work that he had been accustomed to in residential and commercial projects. Both Goodhue and his business became CEDIA members in 2007 and acquired many awards, winning accolades every year. He has served as a CEDIA board member for the Australia/New Zealand region and was instrumental in the New Zealand CEDIA Expo, which was a huge success. As a certified CEDIA Outreach Instructor (COI), he has advocated on behalf of the association and industry as a panellist at events and has served as a board member of the Entrepreneurs’ Organisation, the world’s only peer-to-peer network exclusively for transformational entrepreneurs and leaders. Additionally, Goodhue is a trained board moderator who regularly uses these skills for his local EO forum.

Jennifer Mallett

Level Up Automation, Northborough, MA, USA

Jennifer Mallett has been in the home technology industry for 22 years with 15 years’ experience on the manufacturing side and seven years’ experience as the owner of her own integration company, Level Up Automation. She founded Level Up Automation in 2016 with a vision to bring outstanding home automation experiences using hands-on showroom demonstrations, alongside design and education excellence. Today, the company creates smart homes and intelligent buildings in Massachusetts, Arizona, Florida, Ohio, and Maryland. Prior to establishing Level Up Automation, Mallett served as the North American Director for the Home Technology Sales & Services division at global leading audio company, Bose Corporation, spearheading the custom installation business unit in the U.S. and Canada, as well as providing additional global leadership advisory roles in Europe, India, the Middle East, and Australia. A graduate of Bentley University, Mallett has a bachelor’s degree in marketing and earned leading industry technology credentials as a Control4 programmer and Savant programmer. She also holds URC, Ring ProX, and Lutron Triathlon shading system certifications. Mallett has spoken on numerous panels at CES, InfoComm, and CEDIA conferences.

James Ratcliffe

Homeplay, Sunbury-on-Thames, UK

James Ratcliffe began his career in home technology and developed a passion for music, sound, and electronics from the age of 14, when he joined a Hi-Fi store. His involvement with CEDIA started in 2002 when he became the youngest member of the CEDIA EMEA Board of Directors at 24 years old. Ratcliffe established his design-centric integration firm, Homeplay in 2006. The company later went on to earn the prestigious ISO:9001 accreditation for organisations that demonstrate the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. Under his leadership, Homeplay became the second CEDIA member company globally to achieve CEDIA’s Member of Excellence status and has been bestowed with numerous awards since, including CEDIA, Control4, D-Tools, and local business recognition. In 2018, Homeplay opened an experience centre and won the award for Best Showroom EMEA at the CEDIA Awards. Over the years, Ratcliffe has continued to be heavily involved with CEDIA, assisting with the UK Apprenticeship Trailblazer Group, numerous CEDIA working groups, a UK lighting CPD course, and training at ISE. He regularly provides training to interior designers and architects as a CEDIA Outreach Instructor (COI).

HERE’S WHAT YOU MAY HAVE MISSED

Another CEDIA Expo has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean we’re not still riding on a wave of excitement for the awesome events that happened at the Dallas show in late September. Here are a few of the top highlights in case you weren’t able to see all the action.

Durkin Keynote Entertains

Greg Durkin, Founder and CEO of Enact Insights, didn’t disappoint at the crowded keynote on Wednesday night. Through illustrative examples like Blockbuster, he showed the importance of innovation while digging deep to find out what customers want and need…and they always need something.

This relatable keynote was one for the books, especially as an opener to such a strong in-person event comeback. With discussion of one of the latest CEDIA white papers, The Integrator of 2027, Durkin predicted some interesting entertainment trends he foresees having been in the industry and analysing the data. Ultimately, quality is key. Any streaming service that doesn’t focus on providing quality content, viewing experiences, and user interfaces – on top of making good recommendations - won’t last in such a competitive market.

Advocacy Town Hall Makes a Splash

This first of its kind event wowed CEDIA and its stakeholders. Coordinated to shine a light on CEDIA’s advocacy work, the Advocacy Town Hall breakfast and panel discussion were well attended with more than 300 people remaining engaged throughout the conversation. Attendees came alert and ready to participate, including at the Q & A session that wrapped up the event, despite a pre-show start time of 7:30 a.m.

The panel consisted of Leon SooHoo of Paradyme, Will Breaux of iconic.systems, and CEDIA’s own Director of Government Affairs, Darren Reaman. SooHoo and Breaux have been involved with CEDIA’s advocacy work in the past and explained their experiences. Reaman detailed the work he does each day and reminded the audience why it’s critical that members make their voices heard.

Women in Tech Luncheon a Big Hit

CEDIA Lifetime Achievement Award winner for 2022, Carol Campbell, and her group Women in Consumer Technology (WiCT) hosted a successful lunch and panel discussion titled “The Leadership Challenge – Investing in Your People is Good Business”. Some exciting topics included the value of investing in your talent development and how a professional coach can take your career to the next level. After a pre-event networking reception, attendees gathered to share a meal and learn from successful women leaders throughout the home technology industry.

Panellists included JoAnn Arcenal, director of business development at Crestron Electronics; Tracy Christmann, director of marketing at Somfy; Norma Garcia-Muro, vice president of marketing at Kaleidescape; Sonia Hernandez, business development manager at Crestron; and Michelle Guss, vice president of hospitality at Crestron Electronics. Becky Magnotta from Homestead Coaching and Consulting acted as the moderator. Guss was a 2021 Women in Consumer Technology Legacy Award honouree.

CEDIA Awards Win the Night

The CEDIA Awards were a smash hit featuring a Polaroid theme. It was truly a night to Develop a Moment (the theme-based tag line) for the integrators who won awards, as well as the attendees who were there to celebrate. This year’s ceremony brought the awards back to CEDIA Expo and back as an in-person event. The excitement was palpable as gorgeous projects were showcased across the large screens at the front of the ballroom.

After the ceremony was over, guests had fun taking Polaroids of themselves with life-size picture frames that were a throwback to the quick print cameras several generations grew up with. Many expressed gratitude and joy at catching up with old friends and cheering their teams on when finalists and award -winners were announced.

Members-Only Reception a Welcome Event

CEDIA members got a bonus exclusive networking event before the CEDIA Awards on Friday night at the membersonly reception. The CEDIA Executive Leadership team and several sitting board members were in attendance to enjoy time with the CEDIA community. Many CEDIA staff members also enjoyed catching up and meeting members at the gathering.

With bites and brews in hand, members had access to ask their questions, have real-time conversations, and be together again at what felt like the first major CEDIA Expo event since before the pandemic. CEDIA CEO and Global President, Daryl Friedman addressed the members who were able to join the reception, and smiles were abundant throughout.

Though CEDIA Expo 2022 is finished, and daily life has now readjusted to the normal humdrum of the end of a year, we here at CEDIA remember this event fondly and can’t wait to begin working on the plans for next year’s event in Denver!

THE NEW CINEMA SERIES MARANTZ

Marantz’s new 2022 range of exceptional home cinema products establishes new benchmarks for high-end performance at their respective price points: immaculate sound quality, feature-rich design, and stunning styling.

Consisting of a flagship preamp/processor with matching 16-channel amplifier and four AV receivers, the CINEMA Series provides movie and audio enthusiasts with the most superior at-home listening experience possible.

Installers have been catered for as the all-new highdefinition graphical user interface with additional voice compatibility makes setup and operation intuitive. Plus, installers also get access to a variety of new features including CI mode, which protects certain settings from end-user changes and minimises the likelihood of service calls due to user error.

“ “

The

These all-new AVRs boast outstanding performance and a powerful 3D soundscape thanks to the latest immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X, plus 8K video available on multiple inputs, room optimization available on multiple inputs, and additional features designed to enhance the at-home entertainment experience.

With HEOS® built-in tech they also support seamless multi-room set-up, so users can still enjoy their favourite music, podcasts, or sports from popular streaming providers or personal music libraries connected via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2.

CINEMA 40 - First Stock Expected Q1 2023

This 9.2 channel X 125-watt premium AVR, is ideal for fully dedicated and immersive home theatres proving to be the ultimate movie experience. The aluminium front panel is pure luxury to the touch and that extends to every aspect of its build. Featuring Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Auro 3D, and 8K Ultra HD plus HEOS® Built-in streaming. Support for Dirac Live upgradability with a future software update is scheduled for Spring 2023.

CINEMA Series is the convergence of three unmistakable characteristics of Marantz heritage – exceptionally high performance, meticulous build quality, and elegant timeless design.

- Joel Sietsema, Marantz and Classé

CINEMA 50

The Marantz CINEMA 50 is a 9.4 channel X 110-watts AVR, perfect for discerning movie and music enthusiasts seeking to create an immersive home theatre with rich tonal qualities and lifelike dynamics. With Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, 8K Ultra HD, and HEOS® Built-in streaming. This powerful AV amplifier is perfect for high-performance home theatres. Support for Dirac Live upgradability with a future software update is scheduled for Spring 2023.

CINEMA 60

The Marantz CINEMA 60 is a 7.2 channel 8K AVR with 100W per channel and is ideally suited for dedicated home theatre applications as well as multi-purpose media rooms of any size. With Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 8K Ultra HD, and HEOS Built-In streaming this new AVR set the standard of foundational luxury home theatre.

CINEMA 70s - First Stock Expected Nov 2022

This slimline 7.2 channel 8K AVR with 50W per channel, is suited for smaller living spaces, compact media consoles or crowded A/V racks. With Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and 8K Ultra HD, and HEOS streaming built in. CINEMA 70s appears discreet yet remains a highly capable AV receiver.

AV 10 and AMP 10 - First Stock Expected Q1 2023

The CINEMA Series’ apex products, the AV 10 and AMP 10 provide the ultimate foundation for your home theatre. Built on the Marantz exclusive HDAM technology, the AV 10 and AMP 10 work together to create an elite, referencelevel entertainment system, with the 16-channel amplification of the AMP 10 perfectly matched by the discrete circuitry and seven HDMI inputs of the AV 10. Seamlessly in sync, the duo brings the best of cinematic sound home to you. Support for Dirac Live upgradability with a future software update is scheduled for Spring 2023.

“The most discerning cinephiles and audiophiles will appreciate the CINEMA Series’ immersive sound experience, expertly crafted for the dedicated home theatre. Those who desire both form and function will equally appreciate the display-worthy artisan craftsmanship that elevates any luxury living space.” says Joel Sietsema, Marantz and Classé president.

Discover the exceptional Marantz CINEMA series, exclusively available to the CI market from AWE.

CEDIA AWARDS 2022:

A PICTURE-PERFECT CELEBRATION

AMERICAS

Best Home Cinema

Level II: Do Over Cinema, Audio Images, United States

Level III: Eagles Nest, Audio Images, United States

Around the globe, CEDIA members came together to “Develop a Moment” at the 2022 CEDIA Awards. This year’s theme was a fitting nod to the picturesque projects CEDIA members completed during the year. Winning integrators hailed from CEDIA’s Americas, APAC, and EMEA regions, and were reviewed by an esteemed panel of industry experts.

CEDIA also recognised the groundbreaking products in our industry. Rounding out the winners were CEDIA’s Lifetime Achievement recipient, CEDIA Fellow, Volunteers of the Year, and Special Recognition recipient who were presented with awards for their visionary leadership. Read more about them in the pages of this magazine.

“This year’s awards embody CEDIA’s forwardthinking spirit and the utmost excellence the smart home industry has to offer,” said CEDIA Global President and CEO, Daryl Friedman. “To bear witness to the winners is an honour in itself, but it’s even more exciting to be able to congratulate them in person.”

For more information about the CEDIA Awards and to watch a replay of the events, visit cedia. net/awards.

Best Integrated Home

Level I: Casa Z, Smartlab, Mexico

Level II: Elemental Beauty, Cantara, United States

Level III: Pleasant Lake, Admit One Home Systems, United States

Level IV: Stanley Park, Admit One Home Systems, United States

Subcategories

Excellence in Documentation: Stanley Park, Admit One Home Systems, United States

Excellence in Innovation: Pitch’em the Staircase, La Scala, Canada

Excellence in Lighting: Riverfront Resort Paradise, ETC Palm Beach, LLC, United States

Excellence in Rack Building and Design: Stanley Park, Admit One Home Systems, United States

Architectural Categories

Technology Meets Design: Elemental Beauty, Cantara, United States

Life Lived Best at Home: Eagles Nest, Audio Images, United States

APAC

Best Home Cinema

Level II: Master’s Enclave, The Digital Picture, Australia

Best Media Room

North Shore Retreat, Len Wallis Audio, Australia

Best Integrated Home

Level I: A Vivid Apartment, Sentiment HiFi, China

Level II: Elevated Technology, Boutique AV, Australia

Level III: Marine Drive, Bridger Automation, Australia

Level IV: Luxury Lodge, Liquid Automation, New Zealand

Best Multiple Dwelling Unit Design

Arbour Boutique Apartments, Gold Class AV, Australia

Best Auto, Marine, or Aircraft Askari, Bridger Automation, Australia

Best Showroom

Shanghai Experience Centre, Zene Private Theatre, China

Subcategories

Excellence in Documentation: Luxury Lodge, Liquid Automation, New Zealand

Excellence in Rack Building and Design: Luxury Lodge, Liquid Automation, New Zealand

Excellence in Rack Building and Design, Highly Commended: Master’s Enclave, The Digital Picture, Australia

Best Training

Snap One

Architectural Categories

Technology Meets Design: Marine Drive, Bridger Automation, Australia

Life Lived Best at Home: Marine Drive, Bridger Automation Australia

GLOBAL WINNERS

Best Integrated Home - Global

Admit One Home Systems (USA) – Stanley Park

Best Media Room - Global Homeplay (UK) - Crazy Golf

Best Home Cinema - Global Cinema Lusso (UK) - The Expanse

BEST NEW HARDWARE

Access Networks - Access Networks Core System C SEED Entertainment Systems GmbH – C SEED The Unfolding TV DMF Lighting - DMF Lighting iX Series L-Acoustics Creations - L-Acoustics Creations Fiji 2.1 Olibra LLC - Bond Bridge Pro Savant Systems - Savant Power Systems Storage Solutions

StormAudio ISP Elite 32 Digital AoIP MK3 Wisdom Audio Line Source Array Center Channel

BEST NEW SOFTWARE Savant Systems - Savant Network AI Spatial

EMEA

Best Home Cinema

Level I: King, BNC Technology, South Africa

Level II: The Expanse, Cinema Lusso, United Kingdom

Best Media Room

Crazy Golf, Homeplay, United Kingdom

Best Integrated Home

Level II: Cooper House, Intuitive Homes & Ultamation, United Kingdom

Level II, Highly Commended: Project Olympus, Automated Spaces, United Kingdom

Level III: Palladio, NGC Systems, United Kingdom

Level III, Highly Commended: SS Residence, Synergy Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Pakistan

Level IV: House BE, Woelf, Belgium

Best Multi Dwelling Unit Design

DLF - The Camellias, Macbee, India

Highly Commended: Limassol Del Mar, Lifestyle Technologies Ltd, Cyprus

Best Showroom

Synergy Townhouse, Synergy Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Pakistan

Highly Commended: The Smart Home Garden, Potters Home Digital, United Kingdom

Subcategories

Excellence in Innovation: The Smart Home Garden, Potters Home Digital, United Kingdom

Excellence in Innovation, Highly Commended: Crazy Golf, Homeplay, United Kingdom

Excellence in Documentation: SS Residence, Synergy Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Pakistan

Excellence in Documentation Highly Commended: Crazy Golf, Homeplay, United Kingdom

Excellence in Documentation Highly Commended: DLF - The Camellias, Macbee, India

Excellence in Documentation Highly Commended: House BE, Woelf, Belgium

Excellence in Lighting: Cooper House, Intuitive Homes & Ultamation, United Kingdom

Architectural Categories

Life Lived Best at Home: Cooper House, Intuitive Homes & Ultamation, United Kingdom

Technology Meets Design: Cooper House, Intuitive Homes & Ultamation, United Kingdom

Trade Supplier Categories

Best Hardware

Rako (UK) - Modular Keypads

Best Software

Cindev (USA) – Agent Bundle

Best Training

Snap One (UK) - Automation Programmer

Best Trade Supplier

Gallo Acoustics (UK)

For more than 25 years, Carol Campbell has been a driving force in the smart home technology industry. She’s a well-recognised and respected expert in advancing the art of home theatre interiors and marketing technical products and luxury goods to women. Campbell utilises her considerable experience and industry expertise as the managing director of the Technology Insider Group and as copublisher and partner of Technology Designer magazine.

But her work doesn’t stop there.

Alongside her partner Doug Weinstein, Campbell cofounded the Elf Foundation, a nonprofit organisation that installs professional theatres coined “Rooms of Magic” in children’s hospitals and centres for autism, abused children, and those with long-term disabilities. She is also the founder of Women in Consumer Technology (WiCT), a group focussed on empowering women, building networks, and supporting career opportunities across the breadth of the consumer technology industry. At CEDIA Expo, Campbell hosts the annual WiCT luncheon to connect members of the community and elevate female voices through panel discussions and networking opportunities.

Because of her tireless devotion to innovation and inclusion, Campbell was chosen as the 2022 CEDIA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient.

“It is an honour to be recognised with the CEDIA Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Campbell. “My years of work in this industry, and the friendships I’ve made along the way, are cherished memories that I hold dear. I still stand in awe of the honourees that have gone before, and that I would be included among those industry luminaries that I admire and respect is humbling.”

The CEDIA Lifetime Achievement Award, now in its 30th year, recognises an individual who has demonstrated innovative and visionary leadership in the technology design and installation industry. Past recipients include some of the industry’s most brilliant entrepreneurs, inventors, engineers, and leaders. Nominations are submitted by industry professionals and evaluated on the basis of achievement and service. Since its founding in 1992, Campbell is only the second woman to receive the award, preceded by Billilynne Keller in 2005.

BY JESSICA GUYON | CEDIA, CONTENT MANAGER

“Carol represents one of our industry’s greats,” said CEDIA Global President and CEO, Daryl Friedman. “She has such tremendous wisdom to share, and we’re fortunate she has chosen CEDIA as an avenue for her thought leadership.”

To commemorate her accomplishment, Campbell was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by CEDIA Vice Chairperson, Jamie Briesemeister at the 2022 Americas CEDIA Awards. Before she was called on stage, Briesemeister recalled an early moment in her career when she had felt somewhat ostracised as a woman in such a male-dominated industry. During a CEDIA Leadership Conference in 2010, she got to talking with a group of women who validated everything she was feeling and welcomed her with open arms. One of those women was Campbell. Briesemeister attributes much of her success to Campbell and women like her who gave her confidence and a sense of community.

As she accepted her award beaming with pride, Campbell shared the following message:

It is so great to look out and see the CEDIA community live and in person together again. And that’s what I want to talk about – community. It’s funny that we advise brands to build their community and what we are all a part of is a community that has been built on shared experiences such as CEDIA Expo, CEDIA regionals, rep sponsored events, and individual market events hosted at a dealer’s showroom. You should be proud of what you have built, I am, and I am confident that we will continue to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

To watch a brief video about Campbell’s career history shared from her own perspective, visit CEDIA’s YouTube channel at youtube.com/cediahq. To nominate someone you feel reflects the qualities deserving of CEDIA’s Lifetime Achievement Award, visit cedia.net/lta

“ “

HONOUR

CEDIA celebrates the return of in-person awards ceremonies. Recent lifetime achievement award winners at the CEDIA Awards, Fall 2022. From left: CEDIA Vice Chairperson Jamie Briesemeister, Michael Heiss (2020), Carol Campbell (2022), Will West (2021), Eric Smith (2021), CEDIA Global President and CEO Daryl Friedman.

It is an

to be recognised with the CEDIA Lifetime Achievement Award. My years of work in this industry and the friendships I’ve made along the way are cherished memories that I hold dear.

SAY GOODBYE TO SERVICE CALLS

SAY GOODBYE TO SERVICE CALLS

The reboot has been reimagined.

The reboot has been reimagined.

Pair WattBox power products with OvrC, the industry’s #1 remote management platform, and extend device servicing from anywhere. Whatever the time of day (or night), WattBox power products automatically keep status of your devices so that if one goes unresponsive, it will reboot it automatically. It can also be programmed to power-cycle at a specific time each week, saving you time and money. Now available in EMEA.

Pair WattBox power products with OvrC, the industry’s #1 remote management platform, and extend device servicing from anywhere. Whatever the time of day (or night), WattBox power products automatically keep status of your devices so that if one goes unresponsive, it will reboot it automatically. It can also be programmed to power-cycle at a specific time each week, saving you time and money. Now available in EMEA.

From Snap One, the company that brings you Control4

From Snap One, the company that brings you Control4

Current partners can learn more on the Control4 Dealer Portal, to apply to be a partner scan here.

Current partners can learn more on the Control4 Dealer Portal, to apply to be a partner scan here.

Copyright ©2022, Snap One, LLC. All rights reserved. Designated trademarks are registered trademarks or trademarks of Snap One, LLC or their respective owners.

Copyright ©2022, Snap One, LLC. All rights reserved. Designated trademarks are registered trademarks or trademarks of Snap One, LLC or their respective owners.

HONOURING INDUSTRY STALWARTS

BY JESSICA GUYON | CEDIA, CONTENT MANAGER

CEDIA is fortunate to have a number of active participants and volunteers who dedicate their time to the betterment of the industry. At the 2022 EMEA CEDIA Awards, CEDIA recognised two such individuals, Peter Aylett and Chris Pinder.

Aylett, a 30-year industry veteran, is a partner at Officina Acustica, the manufacturer of bespoke acoustic interior design build systems for private cinemas, media rooms, and professional mastering and mixing spaces. A frequent speaker and volunteer, Aylett has been teaching on behalf of CEDIA for 20+ years and was awarded CEDIA’s Training Volunteer of the Year award in 2014. He received EMEA Special Recognition in 2015. Aylett currently serves as chair of the CEDIA/CTA R10 Standards Committee and chair of the R10 WG1 (audio) Working Group. The most recent addition to his resume is the award for the 2022 CEDIA Fellow.

“Over the past 24 years of being a CEDIA volunteer, I have made lifelong best friends, collaborated with amazing people, learned new things daily, and loved every single minute of teaching,” said Aylett. “CEDIA staff and fellow volunteers are the beating heart of our industry, and I hope I can continue to contribute to this community for many years to come. I’m properly chuffed to have been honoured with a CEDIA Fellowship and thank each and every person I’ve ever had in a classroom, collaborated with, or worked alongside for making my industry journey so enriching and fun.”

Selected annually by the CEDIA Board of Directors, the CEDIA Fellows represent an exclusive group of individuals who have supported the industry for many years and significantly contributed to the association’s success. Aylett is just the third person from the EMEA region to be chosen for this designation since the award’s founding in 2009.

“Aylett has a long history of volunteering for CEDIA, and truly exemplifies what it means to contribute to the industry,” said CEDIA EMEA Managing Director, Matt Nimmons. “I have personally seen how he has helped shape the industry by teaching for us for over 20+ years, serving on the CEDIA Board of Directors, Technology Advisory Council, and most recently, chairing the CEDIA Standards Committee. I know I’m not the only one who holds him in high regard.”

Later in the evening came the award for the 2022 Special Recognition recipient. During the pandemic, the award went into a two-year hiatus with the last recipient having been named in 2019. The 2017 Special Recognition winner, Ian Morrish, joined Nimmons on stage to present Chris with his award.

“Tonight’s winner is a man who had a bonkers mission to raise money for charity,” said Nimmons. “Who would come up with the idea to run six marathons in six days across the Sahara Desert?!”

That person was Chris Pinder.

From March 27 – April 4, the UK native put his mind and body through an extraordinary challenge at the Marathon des Sables, a multiday race through the Sahara Desert. The 251 km ultramarathon is approximately the distance of six regular marathons and is regarded as the toughest foot race on Earth.

Pinder’s motivation to cross the finish line was the thought of all the children he’d be helping. He initially set out to raise £25,000 for Together for Cinema, an organisation that installs home cinemas in children’s hospices across the UK, but his incredible journey quickly sparked the interest of hundreds of people who were in awe of his dedication. His initial goal nearly doubled to over £46,000 from almost 300 donors.

“Having never ran a marathon before, I made the impulsive decision to sign up for the toughest marathon on earth, knowing it would be an eyebrowraising challenge to help Together for Cinema raise funds to build five more cinema rooms,” said Pinder.

To learn more about Aylett and Pinder and to watch a replay of the CEDIA Awards ceremony where they were recognised, visit cedia.net/awards.

Peter Aylett

A VOLUNTEER FORCE

FOR GOOD

CEDIA’s volunteer force keeps the association active and relevant, and ensures the future of the organisation remains stable. Their work helps to support CEDIA’s mission, and without them, CEDIA’s innovative education opportunities for business growth and development would not be possible.

Each year, there are a handful of volunteers whose efforts expand far beyond what is expected of them. To commemorate their work, CEDIA presents those deserving individuals with a Volunteer of the Year award. The awards are presented to CEDIA volunteers who have made essential contributions to association programmes over the past year. This year, CEDIA awarded five individuals with this designation.

The 2022 CEDIA Volunteers of the Year are:

• Certification Volunteer of the Year – Andy Baker (UK)

• Education Volunteer of the Year – Rob Hileman (US)

• New Volunteer of the Year – Jake Fuller (AUS)

• Standards Volunteer of the Year – David Tkachuk (US)

• Volunteer of the Year – Mark Warburton (UK)

“I want to extend my sincerest thanks and congratulations to Andy, Rob, Jake, David, and Mark on being named CEDIA’s 2022 Volunteers of the Year,” said CEDIA Global President and CEO, Daryl Friedman. “Given that so much volunteerism happens behind the scenes, it is my honour to bring these deserving individuals to the forefront. Their contributions – given freely outside of their own endeavours – continue to strengthen the entire CEDIA channel.”

ANDY BAKER

Baker currently serves on the CEDIA Certification Commission, which focusses on creating globally recognised certifications for those entering and progressing within the industry. Previously, Baker served as Chair of CEDIA UK. Outside of volunteerism, the industry veteran leans on his 50 years of experience in telecoms and technology to provide contemporary living and working solutions for clients throughout Europe.

ROB HILEMAN

Hileman has held various sales and human resources management roles for CEDIA member companies in the Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. markets. He was also an instructional design consultant for federal clients and was part of an internal corporate training team. Most recently, he had the opportunity to recruit talent for his company while volunteering on educational and workforce development efforts for CEDIA.

JAKE FULLER

Fuller is the owner and director of the integration firm, Automated Audio Visual. Outside of his business, he spends time volunteering in various CEDIA working groups and as a CEDIA Outreach Instructor (COI). He also hosts the Home Tech Talk weekly podcast, covering all things home technology.

MARK WARBURTON

Warburton runs Ivory Egg UK, a specialist KNX distributor and training provider, and is a director of the global Ivory Egg Group. His wideranging experience has evolved into a passion to educate and support dealers and integrators in running profitable businesses and delivering award-winning projects. He advocates for a better understanding of the building technology industry via trade bodies such as CEDIA and KNX UK.

DAVID TKACHUK

Tkachuk is an audio product manufacturer for Audy Instruments, Inc. Alongside his AV integration company, Tkachuk Associates, Tkachuk started Symbol Logic, a company that streamlines the AV drawing process and application for installers. Tkachuk now applies his technical experience to help integration firms, individuals, and associations like CEDIA, while simultaneously continuing his passion for learning.

To learn more about CEDIA’s volunteer efforts and how to get involved, visit cedia.net/volunteer.

Sky Pivots to IPTV With Sky Stream Puck

Sky Stream ushers in a new era of premium pay TV over IPTV. Steve May, freelance journalist, considers what it means for integrators and viewers.

Does the advent of Sky Stream mean the writing is on the wall for traditional set top boxes and video distribution systems?

That certainly seems to be the direction of travel. The diminutive new IPTV box brings Sky’s latest content platform to a much wider audience and is already piquing the interest of the home technology community.

Long story short: Sky Stream delivers the entire Sky Glass experience over Wi-Fi to any TV or projector. The box offers all the key Sky linear channels, along with its huge on-demand library, and comes with a host of streaming apps, including Netflix, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube, Discovery+, Peacock, and Paramount+ .

It’s a major play by Sky and parent Comcast to dominate tomorrow’s premium pay TV landscape.

For UK consumers, Sky Stream is being touted as the most affordable way to get Sky TV and Netflix together. Combined packages start at £26 a month. There’s the option of a rolling 31-day contract, or an 18-month money-saver.

Sky Stream means that clients no longer need a satellite dish to receive Sky’s channel bouquet, or accept the limitations of the Sky Glass QLED TV. One HDMI and you’re good (although infuriatingly, it’s still too bulky to easily park behind wall-mounted screens).

Still, there’s much to like. Unlike Now TV, Sky’s other streaming product, the tech specs are solid. The box supports HLG, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos audio.

The Glass platform has also been honed since its original launch. Sky has quietly been issuing firmware updates by the dozen that add features, rearrange the home screen, and fix niggles.

And yes, Sky Stream is the very same Sky Puck that was first mooted as a multiroom solution for Sky Glass owners.

Sky remains committed to Sky Q, its hugely successful dish/ IPTV set top box solution, so it’s not like the plug is going to be pulled anytime soon, but it’s clear that all R&D eyes are now focussed on IPTV. There are literally millions of potential viewers out there that don’t want, or can’t have a dish, or don’t need a new TV. Sky Stream is their answer.

For the broadcast industry, the arrival of Sky Stream is clearly an inflection point, but from an integrator point of view, there remain limitations. For one thing, you can only have six Sky Stream devices on a single account (coupled with a Whole Home pack subscription, a £12 a month supplement).

Sky has also confirmed that it has no plans to release the Sky Stream API. Like Sky Glass, Sky Stream runs Entertainment OS, a brand-new co-development of Sky and Comcast. Entertainment OS will form the basis of all IPTV devices from the group and its partners, going forward.

The big news is that a comparable streaming device will launch stateside in 2023. Everything you know about TV is about to change…again.

Watch this space (no subscription required).

LIGHT UP YOUR WORLD WITH LG OLED

OLED is the pinnacle of TV technology. All the screen’s pixels are self-lit, allowing for perfect contrast, 100% colour accuracy and volume, and the sharpest details. All in 4K Ultra HD / Real 8K definition and powered by the advanced alpha series Gen5 AI processors. These act as the brain of the LG OLED TV, automatically detecting and optimising your viewing content to deliver the ultimate picture and sound experience. The latest cutting-edge OLED evo technology – α9 Gen5 AI processor and Brightness Booster technology, found in the G2 and C2 models – brings increased brightness and sharpness for true brilliance and viewing clarity.

LG is the market leader and key developer of OLED TV technology. Perfected over the past 10 years, it offers cutting-edge advancements and now the widest array of screen sizes from 42” to 97”, suitable for any size and style of room and all user needs.

LG TVs are ideal for custom install, with incredible picture and sound quality, beautiful designs, and support for IP Control. Many major systems are supported – including URC, Control4, Crestron, Savant, and more. The class-leading gallery design of LG OLED’s G2 offers an ultra slim profile and built-in flush fit wall mount*. Its understated elegance merges seamlessly into any environment, yet makes a bold statement and powerful focal point wherever it is installed.

LG has been named Which? Home Entertainment brand of the year for three years running, with numerous awards and top reviews for key models including the G2 and C2. LG OLED has even been garlanded in Hollywood, as the 2021 Technology and Engineering Emmy Award Winner for Hollywood Reference Display.

More immersive movies

LG OLED brings a stunningly immersive cinema experience directly to your home. Exceptionally sharp pictures, crystal-clear sound, and perfect black levels deliver movies as the director intended. Filmmaker Mode, Dolby Vision IQ, and Dolby Atmos provide aweinspiring access to movie drama across every genre.

Faster gaming

LG OLED unleashes the full potential of next generation consoles and heightens gaming skills. Boost your competitive edge with HDMI 2.1 features including HFR (4K/120), VRR, ALLM, and an incredible 0.1ms response time plus low input lag. See every detail in stunning pixel-perfect 4K / Real 8K resolution, with HGiG, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos. OLED TVs come loaded with FreeSync, G-Sync, Game Optimiser, eARC features, with easy access to Twitch on LG’s webOS smart platform.

More realistic sport

LG OLED delivers the realism and intensity of the sports stadium experience at home, with uncompromised picture quality at any viewing angle regardless of where you are sitting. Exceptional picture quality with immersive sound (AI sound) is enhanced by the smoothest motion (Smooth Motion) so no matter how fast and intense the action, OLED keeps every detail of the game in diamond-sharp focus.

More stylish space

LG OLED TV’s world-leading technology has created an unimaginably thin, light design. Your low-profile OLED TV merges seamlessly and elegantly into any room of your home, enabling the brilliance of OLED wherever you desire.

Smart content & control

LG OLED features webOS, LG’s smart platform which hosts a huge variety of the best streaming services –including Freeview Play, NOW, Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and more – and makes browsing and searching for what to watch completely hassle-free, including through voice control. Your smart platform is controlled via the easy-to-use LG Magic Remote, plus allows smart home control with built-in Google Assistant and Alexa.

More comfortable viewing

Enjoy a safer, more comfortable viewing experience with OLED’s flicker-free technology and certified low blue light levels. Your eyes benefit from reduced fatigue during those boxset marathons, nail-biting championship games and intense gaming sessions.

Eco-friendly

LG OLED TVs are significantly more eco-friendly than LED equivalents. OLED is officially a Low Hazardous product and rated excellent in recycling efficiency, using less plastic and fewer hazardous materials. LG has also cut the amount of ink used on packaging, making it easier to recycle. Select OLED evo models use different materials internally, reducing weight when compared to previous models, which both makes them easier to wall-mount and helps decrease their carbon footprint when shipping.

*Wall-mount included. Table stand not includedavailable to purchase separately.

VISIT ISE 2023 TO BE INSPIRED, TO LEARN, AND TO DEVELOP SKILLS

Interview with Mike Blackman | Managing Director of ISE

What show attractions have you got lined up for residential integrators?

There is an abundance of smart home technology on the show floor as well as a full programme of professional development sessions, covering a mixture of technology and business topics, and emerging trends within the smart home industry.

How are plans progressing for ISE 2023?

Following an enthusiastic response last year, we’re returning with an even bigger show. Exhibitor space is just under 52,000 sqm, which is over 30% larger than in 2022. With more than 700 exhibitors already confirmed, leading residential AV names including, Basalte, FOCAL, KNX, Lutron, Rako, Savant, and Snap One will be joining CEDIA on the show floor.

The extensive show floor is complemented by a four-day professional development programme that is curated by the show’s co-owners, CEDIA and AVIXA. Expect plenty of exciting show features and enriching learning opportunities to create an unmissable event for the AV channel and end-users alike.

Our opening keynote speaker for ISE 2023 is BK Johannessen, Unreal Engine Business Director for Broadcast and Live Events at Epic Games. The keynote, titled “All Paths Lead to Real-Time”, takes place at 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday 31 January in the Conference Suite CC4.1.

What makes ISE the centre of innovation for the systems integration industry?

ISE is an essential part of the calendar for the AV and systems integrations industry - it is where globally important brands launch products, and where people come to see, hear, and experience the products, services, and solutions that are transforming how we live. This technology shapes our experiences in the home, at work, and in retail, hospitality, education, and live event environments…and so much more. It is a chance to meet people, do business, and make connections that deliver real business benefits. And of course, it is a place to come to be inspired, learn, and develop skills.

You’ll find plenty to inspire you in the Residential and Smart Building Zone in Hall 2, including the CEDIA stand and the CEDIA stage, which will be featuring content and events throughout the show. You can discover systems for designing and controlling lighting scenes in a room - and responding to changes in ambient light levels during the day. You can find out more about the various home technology platforms and connectivity standards, and you can see solutions for improving the visual impact of loudspeakers, control panels, and other elements of home technology.

For many years, the Smart Building Conference has been an essential part of ISE’s conference programme and returns for 2023. Taking place on 31 January, SBC is Europe’s most important high-level conference on smart buildings. It’s a platform for all building automation and in-building technologies, and the must-attend conference for professionals working in the smart building industry, covering residential as well as commercial opportunities.

www.iseurope.org

Transform

Environments

ISE is the world’s leading show for professional audiovisual integration. Discover transformative tech that delivers world-beating residential solutions.

ISE Round Up Product

Artcoustic

BOOTH 2E120

The Artcoustic Spitfire Series loudspeakers are the most powerful, dynamic, and scalable products Artcoustic has ever created. Designed to deliver reference SPL within a controlled dispersion pattern for any high-performance cinema room, the Spitfire Series is capable of Dolby Atmos reference 105db output at up to 12m distance. Output and dispersion change depending on the configuration, allowing the correct design to be installed for multiple rows. With sensitivity above 100db, the Spitfire loudspeakers act fast and play loud.

www.artcoustic.com

Artnovion

BOOTH 5E820

The Artnovion Cinema Series is a flexible range tailored into beautiful, timeless, multifunctional designs. It’s a modular system combining inspiring patterns, colour palettes, and remarkable acoustic performance that can be arranged to create distinct designs. These products are made using four acoustic cores, each providing distinct functionality and finished with a range of premium wood and fabric covers. The latest addition is the Starlight panel, seamlessly integrating the realistic effect of twinkling stars with RGB LED technology via remote control.

www.artnovion.com

Aruba Instant On

BOOTH 2Q225

Aruba Instant On is built for small and home businesses with up to 250 employees that have little or no IT support. Set up in minutes, it will manage the network from a smartphone. Experience speedy, secure, and reliable Wi-Fi 6, Smart Mesh coverage, and connectivity for up to 50 devices with 90 days post-purchase support. Set appointments, accept mobile orders, and manage POS systems seamlessly. All with no hidden fees and energy-saving features to prevent energy bill shock. www.arubainstanton.com

Basalte BOOTH 2H200

Basalte unites high-quality design and intuitive smart home technology. In a Basalte Home, everything is exactly the way you want. From lighting, music, and entertainment to climate and security, the home can be personalised down to the finest details and can all be controlled with a gentle touch of the Basalte app, keypads, and design remote. All products are meticulously designed and handmade with love in Belgium. www.basalte.us

Crestron Electronics, Inc. BOOTH 3H100 & 3H200

With major upgrades including hundreds of Crestron products and thousands of third-party devices, Creston Home is here to impress. Crestron Home controls wellness aspects such as lighting, energy management, and air purification to create the perfect oasis. It supports modern living, delivering speed, and simplicity for commanding home entertainment devices, thermostats, shades, lighting, and security from a single app. Come see how Crestron Home can fit into your home. www.crestron.com

Digital Projection BOOTH 3K800

The Satellite Modular Laser System separates the projector head from the light source. This means noise and heat can be up to 100m away from the head, making for a completely unobtrusive theatre install. The RGB laser light sources offer near REC2020 colour, meaning you can experience the movies with the most vibrant, lifelike colour reproduction available. The projector ‘head’ is fundamentally compact, quiet, lightweight, and consumes very little power, so integrators can install in more locations previously unavailable. www.digitalprojection.com/emea

D-Tools

BOOTH 2K500

D-Tools will demonstrate System Integrator (SI) version 19, which provides AV integrators with a powerful new sales, project, and field service software tool to improve operating efficiency. SI v19 supports better job costing and time management through an integration with QuickBooks Time. There’s also a new PoE (Power over Ethernet) tool and enhancements to purchasing and field service management. D-Tools Cloud is a powerful and easy-to-implement web-based SaaS solution accessible from any web-enabled device. Visit our booth to learn what it can do for your business. www.d-tools.com

Faradite

BOOTH 2D275

Faradite will feature its complete range of impossibly small motion sensors, including the new Motion Sensor 360 Pinhole, a rear mounted, ultra-tiny motion sensor. Faradite will show the gorgeous solid metal mounting plate solution for the Pinhole sensor, which is a collaboration with Focus SB. The company is also launching new products around ISE 2023 , so visitors to the stand will be among the first to get hands on with these sublime pieces of Faradite technology. www.faradite.com

FS Cables

BOOTH 2F590

Tru is a range of high-performance cables for home automation and building control. The range covers the most popular applications when integrating electronic systems into the home and commercial environments, from AV, entertainment, and building control to lighting and security. TruAccessories is the latest addition, which covers cable accessories and tools to help you identify, connect, secure, and protect your cables. Tru cables use only the best materials and manufacturing processes to ensure top performance, making sure you get the most out of your equipment. www.fscables.com

GUDE Systems

BOOTH 3A500

GUDE Systems is a manufacturer of top-quality power solutions for AV experts. The reliable PDUs of this family-owned company allow the empowerment of AV installations found in smart homes and media racks. At ISE, GUDE will introduce its latest power solution Expert Power Control 87. The IP power strip disposes of 30 IEC ports with smart switching and remote control features. For smart home integrators, this smart PDU means faster managed service, less downtimes, and happier customers. www.gude-systems.com

HDANYWHERE

BOOTH 3Q200

HDANYWHERE™ will be showing the brand new Remote uControl, a remote control that is the perfect companion interface for any MHUB system. Everything users previously controlled via the uControl app can now be done with a handheld button remote. ISE is the first public outing for the new remote control, where visitors will be able to get hands-on, have a hold, and have a play at HDANYWHERE™ booth in the Multi-Technology hall. www.HDANYWHERE.com

K-Array

BOOTH 7F350

K-Array’s most iconic loudspeaker for installed solutions has been redesigned with an even sleeker miniaturised premium aluminium body. For discreet use in a variety of intimate environments, the remarkable mid-high micro-loudspeakers are designed for the best sound experience with the lowest visual-impact. Available in two sizes, these speakers can be installed flush mounted or recessed. www.k-array.com

Leon Speakers

BOOTH 2K500

Leon Speakers produces a broad range of functional and beautiful concealment solutions that blend seamlessly into outdoor and indoor settings. Leon AV products provide innovative ways to integrate AV equipment into homes and businesses and elevate the aesthetic attributes of integration projects. www.leonspeakers.com

Krix

BOOTH 2D150

Krix is proudly exhibiting alongside Trinnov Audio and Officina Acustica. Demonstration sessions will be available in the high-channel count home cinema, with a focus on dynamic movie playback. There’s also an innovative and unique approach to low frequency reproduction. Team members will be on hand at booth 2D150 to provide an immersive home cinema demonstration to visitors. www.krix.com

LILIN UK

BOOTH 2L200

LILIN UK will showcase its portfolio of NDAA-compliant security solutions. From the economic E series to the EdgeAI range, LILIN UK will be highlighting its deep integration opportunities alongside partners GJD and HDANYWHERE. 2023 marks 10 years since LILIN developed its first Home Automation driver, and it remains at the forefront of security in CI, thanks to its longstanding close relationships with the leading home automation platforms. www.meritlilin.com

Lithe Audio BOOTH 2E150

The Lithe Audio iO1 all-in-one wireless indoor and outdoor speaker features a high-efficiency amplifier, wired and wireless connectivity options, and highquality components in one weather-resistant, IP66-rated speaker. The aluminium grille only requires a power source for installation. Designed for areas that require high-end audio quality but can’t accommodate a traditional ceiling speaker, the iO1 can be installed in six mounting configurations. Featuring dual full-range woofers, titanium tweeters, and 2 x 60W RMS Class D amplifiers, it delivers high-resolution audio at 192 kHz, 24 bits in these spaces. www.litheaudio.com

Meridian Audio BOOTH 2H150

Meridian will show its DSP3200 loudspeakers in a striking Volcanic orange colour. These compact speakers provide a powerful performance and are designed for intimate listening spaces or as part of a larger installation. The DSP3200 pairs well with the Meridian 218 Zone Controller. The speakers employ Meridian’s awardwinning DSP technologies with two integrated amplifiers, on-board digital signal processing, and two drivers. www.meridian-audio.com

MSE Audio Group

BOOTH 7A400

SoundTube, an MSE Audio Group brand, is featuring two new Mighty Mite pendant speakers. The sleek and contemporary speakers produce louder, cleaner sound from one point of origin. Mighty Mites have a built-in subwoofer and full coverage over large areas, as well as generate exceptional sound for music and voice applications. They also have a built-in 30-Watt transformer for standard 70/100-volt applications. www.mseaudio-int.mseaudio.com

NETGEAR AV

BOOTH 5D800

NETGEAR AV has spent the last 26 years creating advanced networking products. The company understands the difficulties in setting up a great home network. That’s why it offers easy-to-setup yet powerful switches and access points along with free Pro AV and Pro Wi-Fi design services to help you get the network of your client’s dreams. Stop by to see the latest Wi-Fi 6 access points with greater coverage and blazing-fast speed at channel-only pricing. www.netgear.com/residential

Oray

BOOTH 3N700

French manufacturer since 1947, Oray designs and sells projection screens and home cinema seats. Its mission is to support its partners in their most ambitious projects. ISE visitors will discover the recessed motorised screens, customisable frame screens, and large venues motorised screens. Visitors will also have the chance to experience D-BOX sensations in the top-of-the-range home cinema seats. www.oray.fr

Polar Bear Design

BOOTH CS540

The Zentium Pro Thermostat is a dual room, heating and cooling thermostat that can be integrated with AV and Building Management System controls. It can be physically paired with light switches with exclusive styling options, controlling towel radiators and hot water, too. The design blends modern technology with a traditional tactile control. Polar Bear Design has a range of luxury finishes and custom digital crowns to match interior needs. www.polarbeardesign.co.uk

Rako

BOOTH 2K450

Rako provides lighting controls that offer luxury, comfort, and convenience in the hospitality, commercial, and smart home residential sectors. The company will be demonstrating its refreshed app, which allows users to control colour temperature and light intensity with a touch slider. Clients can now adjust the lighting for tasks or set scenes to link the lighting with their individual circadian rhythms. www.rakocontrols.com

Russound

BOOTH 2K500

Since 1967, innovation, quality, and reliability have been the pillars of Russound® products. Russound designs and manufactures audio products that sound great, are easy to install, simple to use, and offer exceptional value. They deliver a complete range of multiroom audio systems, streaming audio solutions, volume controls, amplifiers, loudspeakers, and more. At ISE 2023, Russound will debut a wide array of innovative products, including an all-new line of digital amplifiers. www.russound.com

Screen Innovations

BOOTH 2K500

Screen Innovations has risen above supply chain challenges by continuing to shorten lead times for residential and commercial projection screen projects. Integrators can rely on SI to deliver the products they need to complete projects and build new business. One of the newest products to hit the market is Solo 3, a re-envisioned line of design-centred motorised projection screen cassettes. Solo 3 discreetly blends into surrounding indoor and outdoor entertainment environments. www.screeninnovations.com

Snap One

BOOTH 2D400

Snap One is debuting its new line of Control4 hand-held interfaces, the Halo Family of Remotes. Halo and Halo Touch include enhanced features like a colour screen, new graphical interface, dual-band Wi-Fi support, backlit buttons, and pushto-talk voice control. The Halo model features a 2.8-inch screen that is navigable with hard buttons and access to connected devices. The Halo Touch model makes every function available through an intuitive 3.2-inch customisable touchscreen. www.snapone.com

Stealth Acoustics

BOOTH 2K300

Experience the powerful, performance-driven 7th generation LineaResponseX completely invisible speakers at ISE 2023. The installation features a pair of LRX-83 speakers and a B30g subwoofer system installed in a stud-framed wall with standard texture and paint finish for a representative demonstration. StingRay83 outdoor speakers will also be demonstrated. www.stealthacoustics.com

Syscomtec Distribution AG

BOOTH 6M300

CYP Europe 4K matrix is LITE in name but is packed with technology. The CYP PUV-44XPL-4K22-KIT delivers 4K, HDCP 2.2, 4 x 4 #HDMI / HDBaseT LITE matrix with two local HDMI outputs (with HDR support) and audio breakout. In addition to 4K and 3D video content, the matrix supports high resolution digital audio formats. Combined with the audio breakout functionality, which provides de-embedded analogue L/R audio outputs for each of the HDBaseT zones, it is a truly multi-faceted matrix. www.syscomtec.com

URC

BOOTH 2F400

URC will display the latest updates to its URC Total Control® home automation platform. This includes the launch of Nest and Ring integration as well as Apple TV voice and IP integration, now native within the Total Control® system. Visitors can also see the full Complete Control product line-up including two new handheld remotes, the MX-490, and MX-1400. www.urc-automation.com

Vanco BOOTH CS500

The PulseAudio by Vanco PA-CVB1 Collaboration Video Bar is an affordable, all-in-one solution for transforming any home office or small meeting space into a video collaboration room. The PACVB1’s camera is equipped with smart framing, auto-tracking, and a 120-degree field-of-view, ensuring everyone can fit on the screen. This intelligent camera can respond to motion and sound to focus on the correct speaker so even remote participants have a good experience. www.vanco1.com

WALL-SMART

BOOTH 2F500

Blending technology into solid, thick, uneven wall surfaces can be complicated. The new patent-pending WALL-SMART Frameless Flush Mount enables a seamless fit between rugged walls and keypads, switches, touch panels, and tablets without sacrificing architectural integrity. Once the device is securely mounted and the seams covered with matching material, it looks like a natural part of the home without compromising performance. www.wall-smart.com

TRUST BUSINES S DATA NOT YOUR GUT

BY RACHEL TINDALL | CEDIA, CONTENT WRITER

Matt Bernath is a numbers guy. Like many integrators, he started in the industry through retail, working at Circuit City in the car department. In 2006, he started his own integration company. As it grew, he realised he was making mistakes, so he invested in coaching.

In 2018, he sold the business to begin coaching privately outside the industry. He wasn’t away for long – in 2019, he began coaching at Vital. These days, he enjoys analysing the numbers from a new position: President and Owner.

Since 2021 when he bought the business, Bernath has continued to learn about economic growth, trends, and how to ensure businesses can weather any storm and come out the other end with a positive vision of the future.

In this podcast, aptly titled “Planning for Market Downturns & Business Health”, CEDIA’s Senior Director of Technology & Standards, Walt Zerbe talks with Bernath about what businesses can be looking at to strengthen their finances and secure their future.

Looking at Metrics

No matter what kind of business you run, you need to be collecting data. In fact, Bernath emphasises that you need to “trust the business data, not your gut” when it comes to making decisions for your business.

“There’s a stream of data you should be getting out of your business on a regular basis and that data can help predict and inform what’s going to happen in your specific markets to your business”, he explains

At a minimum, integrators need visibility into these metrics:

• Cash flow

• Inventory (consumes cash)

• Customer deposits (provides cash)

• Accounts receivable (cash that’s sitting on the sidelines)

• Gross margin (sales total minus cost of goods)

• Project pipeline (potential and committed work to be done)

Leading Indicators

According to Bernath, it could be a year before you see major changes; however, that doesn’t mean good things aren’t happening in the meantime.

Leading indicators that integrators should focus on include:

MATT BERNATH

•Pace/number of sales leads (percentage and trends)

• Getting in front of a project partner’s lead flow (Ex: architects) is a great way to maintain a strong sales lead number

• Close rates (percentage and trends)

• Project pipeline number (committed work to be done – need a minimum of an annual plan)

- Regularly recognising revenue

- Products and equipment delivered

- Signed contracts that haven’t yet been produced

- This number informs hiring decisions

• Close ratio

• Partner feedback

• Gross margin compression (finding out margins at tax time is way too late)

• Labour margin compression (labor today must cover the cost of labour in six months)

It’s also critical to work with trade partners and adjacent trades to better manage your data and finances. Read more about this in The Integrator of 2027 white paper (free at cedia.net/whitepapers).

To listen to Bernath and Zerbe’s full discussion on the podcast, visit cedia.net/podcast.

IF YOUR ACTIONS INSPIRE OTHERS TO DREAM MORE, LEARN MORE, DO MORE, AND BECOME MORE, YOU ARE A LEADER.

JOHN QUINCY ADAMS

THE LAST 5%

THOUGHT-PROVOKING TAKEAWAYS

In 2022, we had almost a 10% increase in membership. We have members in 82 COUNTRIES.

“ I get asked: who is my competition? I answer, ‘good enough.’ I lose to good enough way too often. ”

- MIKE HACKETT | Co-Founder/SVP, Qolsys

When polled, about half (49.5%) of CEDIA’s audience prefers to find new industry news on social media.

There is still too much emphasis on a medical model of ‘doing technology to people’ and using technology to replace the role of carers rather than providing people with technology for their own use and helping to make more time for human interaction.

– 2022 Policy Connect Report by All-Party Parliamentary Group for Assistive Technology

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– CHRIS BAILEY, Integration & Technology Director at Pioneer Music Co. & CEDIA COI Instructor